12 replies so far

Well, the Triton comes to mind, it offers above the table bit changes and being a plunger you can get by without a lift. It does have an awkward (for table use) switch arrangement; you have to slide a gate back to turn the switch on but either model (large or small) would be good in a table. My preference would be a Milwaukee (either a 5616 or a 5625. They have above the table adjustment features, but the bit doesn’t quite come up above the table unless you use a lift.

I have the big Triton (3-1/4 or so HP) and really like it for router table. I’ve had it about 2 yrs. I’m not sure what new models/features have come out since then. For micro adjusting the height, I find it better to reach under table and use the micro-adjustment knob instead of the above table handle. The auto locking arbor (when fully raised) and single wrench bit changes are nice. I have it mounted to a Rockler aluminum plate. I had to drill a hole for the above table handle.

On Fred’s comment about the switch, I connect mine to an external switch so the only time I fiddle with the router switch is when changing bits. The switch has to be in the off position to lock arbor.

On the other end of the economic scale, I have a little Ryobi that came with a bench top table. I put it in my big table fully expecting to have to replace it. It just keeps going and won’t die! Easy to adjust height. Easy to change bits. The only downside is it only does 1/4” bits.

Harvey, have you looked at the Bosch 1617? It’s price point isn’t too bad (I got mine almost a year ago for $140 brand new), and it’s well regarded. It has above the table height adjustment, but I don’t think you can change bits from above the table. For me, it’s easy enough to just pop the whole insert out and swap the bit.

+ 1 on the Bosch 1617EVS. It does have above table adjustment, although you do have to lift the plate to change bits, which is really no trouble. I got the kit with the fixed and plunge bases from CPO outlets for around $164 reconditioned. May have gone up a few dollars since then.

PC 7539 with a rouseau plate and the Router Raizer kit installed for adjustment above the table, 1 crank = 1/16th I’ve had it since before others incorporated the feature to a base model. works very well.

-- I've decided 1 mistake is really 2 opportunities to learn.. learn how to fix it... and learn how to not repeat it

I have the Ryobi router and its like 59 bucks and I just drilled holes into my table top and counter sunk them then put in machine screws and washers and screw them into the base on the other side of the table . Its a little hard to change bits but it is always level and there is no insert. Also This way dust doesn’t fall below the table. And don’t forget ot drill home for bit in the middle of the 4 screws